Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has reiterated his hope that Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger will return to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The appeal comes as part of his ongoing tour of West Africa, during which he has emphasised the need for regional unity.
Maada Bio, who assumed the rotating presidency of ECOWAS in June, believes his positive relationships with the leaders of the three junta-led nations could pave the way for reconciliation.
The Sahel States’ Withdrawal
The three countries who are all under military rule, announced their departure from the 15-member bloc in January.
This move followed the creation of their own alliance, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), last year.
Their withdrawal came after ECOWAS demanded a return to democratic governance in Niger, following its 2023 military coup.
A Critical Moment for West Africa
Maada Bio’s call for unity comes at a decisive time for ECOWAS, as the region contends with rising threats from terrorism, the impacts of climate change, recurring military coups, and widespread poverty.
He has pledged that his leadership will focus on strengthening democracy, enhancing security cooperation, boosting economic integration, and safeguarding the bloc’s institutional credibility.
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